Konstantin Frank

For 300 years, failed attempts to plant "Vitis vinifera" varieties in the northern latitudes of North America were blamed on the cold weather.

With extensive experience growing the European grapes in below freezing temperatures back in Ukraine, Frank knew it would be possible with the grafting techniques that he developed.

In November 2001, Konstantin Frank was inducted into the Wine Spectator Hall of Fame for his outstanding achievements in the field of viticulture.

Konstantin's son, Willy Frank, became president after his father's death and surprised some in the industry by introducing sparkling wines made in the traditional methode champenoise technique.

That same year, he introduced a value line called "Salmon Run" using grapes sourced from local farms around the Finger Lakes.